It is definitely worth putting yourself through the poice academy before being hired. It greatly increases your potential to be hired over those who have not done so. As far as PA certifications transferring from state to state, that depends upon the states involved. I know that here in New Jersey we do accept PA certs from other states but still require the transferee to go to our PA for specific classes like firearms, motor vehicle law and criminal law since these subject requirements and laws vary from state to state. We refer to this as Waiver Training. Your best bet would be to call the Police Training Commission in the states yuou are interested in and ask them directly if they accept out of state PA certs. Best of luck in your endeavor to join the Law Enforcement Community, it is well worth all of the effort that you put in to it.

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Here in NC most agencies require you to be certified prior to applying or being hired. Unless you attend a large agency such as Charlotte, Raleigh or Durham which have their own academy. I went to the academy prior to being hired, and I was hired just before I graduated. Good luck.

"I believe with all my heart that standing up for AMERICA means standing up for the God who has so blessed our land"- Reagan.

Thanks for posting this topic Kalderman. I had the same thoughts on whether or not I should do the Police Academy after I graduate college in Dec. All the jobs I have applied to didn't require you to have PA cert. But I do see alot that are having it required before you apply to the department. And alot want experience also which makes the job hunt a little bit harder. But with research and looking into the department more it makes the hunt less painful.

Okay thanks for your comment I will look into the academy. I have a few Academys that I am looking into. I just didn't want to spend the 7k that I don't have and I heard form a family member that retired LEO that its good for a year then you have to retake it. I guess I look at it from money perspective, but that's the poor college student ego I have at the moment. I am looking at getting some more loans for college so instead of going on for my masters in December I might look at applying at an academy.

Not to discourage you my state has self sponsored academy's however, they are putting out more graduates than positions. My suggestion is seek employment with a large municipality or state patrol agency who has their own academy. You may wish to seek a reserve position to get your foot in the door. Retleo is giving some good advice. I am curious of your age and level of education.

I am 21 years old, and currently a senior in college graduating in may of 2013 with a BA in Criminal Justice and a AA in Economics. I am completing an internship with most likely the state police in the summer of 2013, and I am unsure of what to do after that. I have long term goals of working with a federal agency and am currently trying to figure out my options to gain experience.